What engagement it has had with island agricultural sectors regarding the land requirement increase from 5% to 7% for greening measures.

Extensive engagement ensured Enhanced Greening requirements are proportionate for farmers, crofters, and small farms.Officials commissioned academic advice to model the impact of the changes to ensure the transitional change was proportionate and deliverable.The Scottish Government worked with stakeholder organisations, including the National Farmers Union for Scotland and the Scottish Crofting Federation. Involved farmers and crofters directly through user research and workshops with advisors across Scotland, including Orkney.This collaborative approach has led to the introduction of four new Ecological Focus Areas, and updates to existing EFAs, providing greater flexibility to reflect the diversity of farming systems including local practices found in Orkney.Advisors in Orkney secured funding to analyse academic modelling specific to the islands and organised roadshows to help farmers and crofters prepare for the changes.The Greening scheme £142 Million budget supports agriculture and the environment, this complements the other significant support packages that Scottish Government continues to provide in stark contrast to policies elsewhere in the UK.